I currently enjoy being a graduate student at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign pursuing an MFA in Lighting Design & Technology (exp. 2021). I recently graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with a major in Theatre: Design & Production (2018).  During that time, I also worked as house electrician for Strayer-Wood Theatre on campus and as a stagehand at the Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center. In addition, I work professionally in the community and over the summer.

Being a master electrician and the puzzle of combining the challenges of a venue with the needs of a designer is what I love most. I want to pull everything together to make the most solid and efficient plan possible. I like solving problems, figuring out how things work, and leading a crew.

Design has always been incorporated into my life as well; ever since a young age, I have been involved with creative ventures like writing my own fictional stories, drawing those characters, or art classes like ceramics and painting. A love for designing for a stage only naturally followed suit!

The organization skills of being an assistant lighting designer or programmer are also appealing, with additional interest in rigging and carpentry. 

Reachable at

mjcoffel@gmail.com
(763) 913-5308

Originally from Minneapolis, MN
Based now in Phoenix, AZ
Loves to travel & explore